I recently brought my max to my Mechanic because I am leaking power steering fluid, He told me my rack and pinion needed to be replaced and some bushings on the control arms. He quoted me at $590 for parts and installation, does this sound like a deal??

for a used steering rack that sounds about right.

Yeah a USED steering rack usually runs around ~$300 .... with installation...it would probably run around your price.... u might have been a overpriced by a few buckz hehe but it should be around there...

Well sounds good, I'm just glad I didn't have to go to the dealer for this one. I would probably have to dish some serious cash out if I did. It is a used one too.

I too have a lil power steering fluid leaking. I have to put in about an oz or two every 2 months.

Though, I didn't know you had to change the whole rack. I figured one of the seals on a hose connected to the power steering pump would do it. Or maybe just replace the whole hose. Either way, it looks like a major pain the **** to get to the pump, so I've put it off considering it is such a minor leak.

Have you looked under the car to maybe determine the leak source? How minor is the leak?

If you do run yer car without enough power steering fluid, would that cause excessive wear on the steering system? Without the power assist from the power steering pump, you'd have to force the steering wheel more (and it's linkages).

Anyway, any info or thoughts on this?

Well, the leak I have is pretty bad, there is about a 12" puddle of fluid where I park my car, and it's been leaking for only 3 days. I haven't actually looked myself..damn job is keeping me busy. So I have to trust my mechanic on this one, besides if that doesn't fix it he's not doing his job, right?

Hope he's right. I'd like to know if that fixes the leak. I was hoping you had taken a look, because I'd hate to ever have to replace my whole rack and pinion thing....ever.

Sounnds like a good time for Energy Susspension bushings. :-)

Yeah, I would but I am selling this car in 6 months.